Unofficial, quickly disseminated academic performance reports provided by Texas A&M University are often referred to by this term. These reports, typically available shortly after the conclusion of an exam or other graded assessment, allow students to gain a preliminary understanding of their performance before official grades are posted. For example, an instructor might distribute a histogram showing the score distribution on a midterm exam without revealing specific student scores.
Rapid access to performance data offers several advantages. Students can gauge their understanding of the material and identify areas needing improvement. This immediate feedback can be crucial for adjusting study strategies and seeking assistance before subsequent assessments. Furthermore, such reports can alleviate anxiety by providing a general sense of class performance relative to individual results. Historically, these informal reports relied on various methods of dissemination, from physical posting in designated locations to email announcements. Technological advancements have streamlined this process, with many instructors now utilizing learning management systems or dedicated online platforms.